Over the past few weeks, we were surprised new clients have been continuing to reach out during these strange times. The coronavius (COVID-19) pandemic has redefined many of our lives currently and changed our plans going forward. However, we realized with everyone sheltering in their spaces, they are seeing 24/7 where their home needs improvements. Those with new homes are lost as to how to furnish them with most stores closed. Many people are craving for their home to be a more peaceful sanctuary as well as a more effective work space.

But rest assured: interior designers like myself can actually help you achieve incredible results and meet your goals even when we are forced to be working remotely. The most important thing to realize is that you can create your dream home or space during a pandemic when you realize the early parts of a renovation are mostly done remotely, anyways!

We wanted to share the same inside advice that we have been giving them. We hope to help you determine if this is the time to address that remodel project, furnish that empty space, or outfit a desperately needed home office.

Much of our process happens before spaces exist, at least in their finished form, so using virtual tools is our forte. Although we miss seeing our clients in person, our main tools have been virtual for some time. 3D sketches and renderings are one of our main tools to express our visions. Sharing our screen to walk you through your new space has never been easier!

Our office, once filled with vendor catalogs and samples, was streamlined long ago when suppliers moved catalogs online and samples to quick ship. We are adept at getting these items out to you for you to peruse at home. As showrooms and retail locations have become fewer in recent years, many products are purchased without seeing the full-scale piece regardless of our current situation. A few lovely fabrics to review have been appreciated by our clients as a lovely reprieve from the world! Our access to wholesale suppliers and experience navigating various levels of furniture make furnishing a new home much easier and we are happy to be your guide to the virtual marketplace.

The next concern for many is budget in these uncertain times. A chat with your interior designer can help you assess what is doable now, and what may make more sense for the future. We have helped clients space out their projects and understand how best to execute what they need. There are many levels and ways to make your space work and we can help you understand what is best for you.

Lastly, people are happy to learn that the timeline of design can still remain at a relatively normal pace despite the pandemic. Spending your time stuck inside and making all of the necessary plans for your project is a perfect productive use of energy. As soon as things re-open, you’ll be ready to see your vision come to life! The design phase of any project is best started many weeks or even months before your project. The best result is achieved when we have adequate time to collaborate. With cabinetry lead times of 8-12 weeks and similar furniture lead times, planning now makes sense for many. Although some manufacturers are shut down, they are offering quoting, samples and more: all the tools we need for designing. See our blog - THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO INTERIOR DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION TIMELINES to learn more!

To be sure, nothing beats a final check on-site for some finishes, and we look forward to that time returning. However, we are also excited as we find ways in the interim to work around these challenges. We look forward to being a reprieve for our clients as we focus together on getting their construction projects ready for build or finding that perfect sofa. Whether it is getting that office set up pronto or finally planning for that kitchen remodel they have put off for way to long, we look forward to helping you turn their home into your sanctuary.

Amber Golob Interiors harnesses timeless aesthetics, structure and beauty amid elegance as one of Chicago's premier luxury interior designers. An expert on kitchens and bathrooms, her work embodies modern trends, allowing your life to be rediscovered through intimate definitions of your style.

Live in Chicago or the North Shore?Schedule a consultation with luxury interior designer, Amber Golob, by contacting her at Amber@AmberGolob.com or calling 773-960-0498.